Canada’s New Rules for International Students: Admissions & Work Rights Explained
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Canada remains one of the top destinations for overseas education, attracting thousands of students each year who aspire to pursue a master’s in Canada, secure scholarships, and explore a diverse list of universities in Canada.
Recently, Canada has announced new rules impacting international students, particularly around admissions and work rights. The purpose of these updates is to make student visa process more efficient and to ensure that students receive better support in their studies.
Updated Admissions Rules for International Students
Canada has tightened admission requirements to make sure international students are choosing legitimate programs and institutions. This includes stronger oversight of designated learning institutions (DLIs) and additional documentation to prove funds.
Before diving into details, here’s a snapshot of the revised admission criteria:
| Admission Aspect | Previous Requirement | New Rules |
| Proof of Funds | CAD 10,000 annually | CAD 20,635 annually (excluding tuition) |
| Study Permit Cap | No cap | Two-year cap with 35% reduction in 2024 and further 10% in 2025 (total permits capped at 437,000) |
| Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) | Not required | Mandatory for most applicants, issued by province/territory |
| Acceptance Letter Verification | Standard submission | DLIs must confirm acceptance letters directly with IRCC |
These changes reflect Canada’s effort to maintain the quality of education, safeguard genuine student applications, and ensure that international students are financially secure during their studies.
Canada Student Visa & Work Rights Explained
The Canada student visa fees remain an important consideration, but the bigger update is about the work rights for international students. The government is adjusting on-campus and off-campus work allowances to balance academic performance with financial independence.
Here’s a summary of the revised work rights:
| Work Option | Old Rules | New Rules |
| Off-Campus Work | Up to 20 hrs/week during semesters | 24 hrs/week during semesters |
| Full-Time Work | Allowed during scheduled breaks | Allowed, with stricter monitoring |
| Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Duration equal to study program | Still applies, with more streamlined application process |
Canada Student Visa Fees & Application Process
Besides admission changes, any student should also look into the cost and procedures of applying to a Canada student visa. Visa charges are mandatory cost and the procedure involves extra check-ups to comply with the new regulations.
Key fees include:
- Study Permit Application Fee – CAD $150 (paid online at submission)
- Biometrics Fee – CAD $85 (mandatory for most applicants)
- Renewal/Extension Fee – CAD $150 (if extending your stay)
- Additional Expenses- such as medical exams, tuition deposits, and the updated proof of funds requirement of CAD $20,635.
With added steps like acceptance letter verification by DLIs and the need for a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), applicants should prepare documents early and keep track of timelines to ensure a smooth visa process.
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Scholarships and Opportunities for Masters in Canada
With proof of funds now doubled to CAD $20,635, financial planning is more critical than ever. Scholarships and assistantships can significantly reduce the cost of pursuing a master’s in Canada, making overseas education in Canada more accessible.
| Scholarship Type | Coverage | Eligibility |
| Government Scholarships | Full/partial tuition + stipend | High academic achievement |
| University Scholarships | Tuition waivers or discounts | Based on GPA or research potential |
| Research Assistantships | Monthly stipend | Enrolled in research-based master’s programs |
These opportunities not only help manage expenses but also strengthen applications to top programs from the list of universities in Canada.
Planning Your Canada Study Journey with Nomad Credit
The new regulations governing international students in Canada introduce new standards and stricter procedures, yet this also opens the door to successful students who are well-prepared.
Preparation is the key to success, whether it involves navigating the study permit cap, dealing with Canadian student visa fees, or securing master’s scholarships in Canada.
At Nomad Credit, we make your path easier, whether it’s discovering the right university, learning about loan opportunities, or budgeting for study abroad. With the expert guidance of a study abroad consultant, you can turn your dream of study in Canada into reality with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to process a Canadian study permit under the new rules?
Processing times vary by country, but with additional verification steps, students should apply at least 4-6 months prior to their intended start date.
Are international students allowed to switch programs or institutions after arriving in Canada?
Yes, but the new system requires DLIs to re-verify acceptance with IRCC, which can make switching programs or schools more complex.
How do the new rules affect part-time students in Canada?
Part-time students generally don’t qualify for work rights or post-graduation permits. Full-time enrollment at a DLI is strongly recommended.
Do international students still qualify for health insurance in Canada?
This depends on the province. Some provinces, like British Columbia and Ontario, offer health coverage, while others require private insurance.
How do these new rules impact applications for permanent residency (PR) later?
The new rules don’t change PR pathways directly, but maintaining full-time enrollment and valid permits remains critical for eligibility.
What happens if my Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is delayed?
Without a PAL, your study permit application will be considered incomplete. Students should coordinate with their chosen province or institution to avoid delays.
Mansi Jain
Updated on September 22, 2025
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